In short: everything just right - but turn down the sun next time pleaseIn full: Last time I did a race through CLiddesden I was cycling in JUne - it threw it down all day and may hands were so cold I couldn't move them for an hour after the finish - that was the kind of weather I would have expected in October - not the hot sunshine we did get.

for a first time event it was really well organised, lots of people around in the town and along the route.

I never knew so many people lived in CLiddesden - seemed like they were all out, cheering the crowd on, they stayed out for ages too, still seemed to be out cheering on the slower runners.

Nice course to the race - the hills are there to make it tough, but at the top there is often a long down hill, which makes the climb to the top worth it.

well done to all involved - be back next year (with a sun hat)Date of review: October 10, 2011

In short: My first half marathon, and really enjoyed it despite the heat and the hills.In full: Fantastic support from the locals out in the countryside, I suspect primarily because of the fantastic weather for spectators. Had the weather been normal I would have preferred to run around the town as it would have been easier for spectators to get to multiple points on the course to watch. As the weather was hot it was a good job that locals were doling out drinks and spraying with hose sprinklers and water pistols (thank you Cliddesdon especially). I am still aching but really pleased with my time. Organisation seemed extremely good (no queuing to get chips, stow and retrieve baggage etc.) and the marshalls were consistently helpful and encouraging.Date of review: October 6, 2011

In short: A credit to Basingstoke - Well done Destination BasingstokeIn full: Fantastic to start in a town centre and be out in the undulating countryside minutes later. I took my own drink bottle, but more drink stations were needed on such a hot day.

The marshals were fantastic and there was plenty of local support where people could gather.

In short: Fantastic experience, I've got to try a flat one now!In full: I really enjoyed the experience. Even though it was exceptionally tough I got a PB, but given it was my first half that was a given! I'm aching big time now though. I'm desperate to have a crack at a flat one soon to see how much quicker I can go. Gosport seems tempting!

I was really pleased thaat the event was a success as I'm local and it makes me proud when things like this come off. I'm sure that any glitches will be sorted out next time, it was the fisrt one after all. The support was awesome!Date of review: October 4, 2011

In short: Tough course trained hard for it but still struggled in the heatIn full: Well organized event, great atmosphere and a lovey day even though it was roasting hot. The start could have been a little earlier and here was a definite need for more water stations and the option of water or energy drinks.The locals were great i live on the course in Cliddesden village and it was great to see every one out giving support. This event will grow and grow, i think the great weather had a lot to do with the success of the event and i hope that next years event will be equally blessed but not a hot please. Date of review: October 4, 2011

In short: Great atmosphere, fantastic scenery, hilly and hot. Tough tough race.In full: Very well organized event. My local race and only my second half marathon. Locals were fantastic, providing a lot of support and bringing out the hoses for a very welcome sprinkling in that blazing heat.

I just about squeezed out a new PB, but it was the hardest run I can remember. Ran a good first 10K (stupidly too fast) and then came what seemed a never ending climb up to Farleigh Wallop. That did for me and the rest of the race was pain right up to the finish line.

Definitely recommended, but next time I will take the first half at a more sensible pace!Date of review: October 4, 2011

In short: Well Done BasingstokeIn full: How Hot was that!!!Fantastic spectator support. Could have done with an extra drinks station around mile 11 due to the heat. Nice medal, but not so great goody bag.Date of review: October 4, 2011